Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD): Early Signs of Lung Scarring and Breathing Difficulty

February 15, 2026

Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD): Early Signs of Lung Scarring and Breathing Difficulty

Verified By
KIMS-SUNSHINE
Specialist,
15 February, 2026

Interstitial lung disease or ILD is an umbrella term used to describe any condition that affects the lungs by causing inflammation and scarring of tissue. ILD can be caused by different factors and it is important to understand that the scarring or fibrosis that follows after prolonged inflammation remains irreversible. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential to retain lung function in the long term. ILD is also called diffuse parenchymal lung disease (DPLD). Scarring of lungs can cause chronic symptoms, so talk to a pulmonologist at KIMS Sunshine Hospital- the best hospital for lungs treatment in Hyderabad.

Lung Fibrosis Causes

Some well known causes include autoimmune disorders, inhalation of harmful substances, exposure to contaminants or pollutants like silica, asbestos, etc. You may also be hypersensitive to mold, dust, pollen or other triggers.

Rarely, ILD can be caused as a side effect from medications like methotrexate, amiodarone, nitrofurantoin etc.which may be prescribed for heart, immunosuppression or other conditions respectively.

Some people may have ILD even with no underlying cause- then it is idiopathic in nature.

Interstitial Lung Disease Symptoms

Common symptoms of ILD include-

Progressive breathlessness when you exercise
You may have a dry cough perpetually.
You may feel really tired.
You could have associated chest discomfort too

Diagnosis of ILD

Diagnosis involves specialised tests or common ones like-

Blood tests to check for inflammatory markers or infections.
Lung function tests to check how your lungs perform while at rest or during times of stress like exercise.
High-resolution CT scan or X-rays may be used to image lungs.
A bronchoscopy may be used to image lungs from the inside. A tube with a camera attached to it is inserted through the nose and into the lungs in this method.
A biopsy may be taken- a piece of lung tissue will be checked under a microscope by a pathologist to check why you have chronic inflammation.

Treatment of ILD

Treatment involves using medications to control inflammation and related symptoms.

Corticosteroids are given to reduce inflammation.
Anti-fibrotic drugs are used as treatment for pulmonary fibrosis.
Biologics are specific drugs used to treat autoimmune lung disease.
Pulmonary rehabilitation- exercises for breathing are done to help improve lung function.
Oxygen therapy for ILD is recommended if oxygen saturation in blood is low.
If there is severe scarring, then a lung transplant may be required.

Conclusion

ILD is a chronic condition, as there is no cure. You will need to learn to manage symptoms effectively- with the use of breathing exercises or medications or even a combination of both. Complications of ILD include pulmonary hypertension, a collapsed lung, pneumonia or respiratory failure in some cases. If you have severe chest pain, are not able to breathe freely and have other lung symptoms, you should talk to our pulmonologists, as we are the best pulmonology hospital in Hyderabad.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is interstitial lung disease?

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) refers to a group of disorders that cause inflammation and scarring of the lung tissue, affecting the interstitium—the space around the air sacs. This scarring, known as fibrosis, makes the lungs stiff and reduces their ability to transfer oxygen into the bloodstream. Over time, breathing becomes more difficult. One well-known form is Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, which has no identifiable cause. Symptoms of ILD include shortness of breath, a persistent dry cough, fatigue, and reduced exercise tolerance.

How is ILD diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a detailed medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies. High-resolution CT (HRCT) scans are central to identifying patterns of lung scarring. Pulmonary function tests measure lung capacity and gas exchange. Blood tests may help identify autoimmune causes. In some cases, a bronchoscopy or surgical lung biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the specific type of ILD.

Can ILD worsen over time?

Yes, many forms of ILD are progressive, meaning lung scarring can increase and lung function may decline. The rate of progression varies by type and individual factors. Some patients experience stable disease for periods of time, while others have gradual or faster deterioration. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can slow progression and improve quality of life.

Who is at higher risk of developing ILD?

Risk factors include long-term exposure to environmental or occupational irritants such as silica, asbestos, or coal dust. Autoimmune diseases, certain medications, radiation therapy, smoking, and a family history of lung fibrosis also increase risk. ILD is more common in older adults.

When should a pulmonologist be consulted?

A pulmonologist should be consulted if someone has unexplained shortness of breath, a chronic dry cough, abnormal chest imaging, or declining lung function. Early specialist evaluation supports accurate diagnosis and timely management.